Sardis Road

Sardis Road is a rugby union stadium in Pontypridd, Wales. It stands on a road of the same name and is the home ground of Pontypridd RFC. The stadium is also known locally as the 'House of Pain' for its tough reputation. Pontypridd RFC moved to Sardis Road in 1974 after playing earlier matches at Taff Vale Park and People’s Park. The ground has hosted major rugby league and union fixtures over the decades. It once served as the temporary home of the Celtic Warriors regional team in the early 2000s. The stadium gained wider notice during the 1991 Rugby World Cup. Argentina played Western Samoa there in a group match, with Samoa winning 35–12. Sardis Road also hosted the 2009 Wales versus Ireland rugby league semi-final in the European Cup. Pontypridd RFC now use the ground after the Celtic Warriors disbanded in 2004. Plans to sell the stadium for redevelopment were rejected, preserving it for local rugby. Visitors find a compact stadium surrounded by residential streets in Pontypridd. The pitch sits below street level, giving the stands a close view of the action. The ground retains the name Sardis Road even though it is set back from the road itself. Inside, the stands are simple and functional, with no modern frills. The atmosphere is intense on match days, especially when Pontypridd RFC play. The stadium remains a proud local landmark despite its modest size.